How do vent panels protect dust collectors from explosion?

Among explosion protective devices which eliminate effects of explosion in potentially hazardous zones are decompresive (vent) panels. Here we shortly explain how they work.

What are explosion vent panels and what types are there?

Decompressive panels are protective systems, which are mounted on dust collectors in order to decompress the explosion and protect the dust collector. Panels are one of the protection systems listed in the ATEX 2014/34/EU Directive of the European Parliament and of Council of 26 February 2014 and defined as: ‘devices other than components of equipment which are intended to halt incipient explosions immediately and/or to limit the effective range of an explosion’.

Panels are produced of stainelss steel, they can be flat, domed or curved. Some have 50 mbar resistance other 200 bars. They also are equipped with EPDM, silicone or graphite gasket depending on needs.

Vent panels are mounted on dust collectors, silos, cyclones or bucket conveyors and other tanks. They may be additionally installed with deflectors (to direct the explosion upwards) or flameless venting device (for indoors).

How do vent panels relieve explosion?

Vent panels work as weak surfaces installed in the walls of silos or dust collectors. When an explosion occurs, vent panels open rapidly and release the explosion pressure and flame with burning particles outside the enclosure. The pressure inside the tank or a silo is reduced to a safe level.

Vent panels will only work when they are properply installed. Therefore, detailed calculations of the stuctural resistance of a dust collector are needed in order to define the maximum static pressure. This data is neccessary to select the correct venting surface (size and number of vent panels) for a given dust collector or other tank that is going to be protected.